Diamond Certified Category Report

Marin County – Window Washing

Smart Window Cleaning has been providing window, skylight, and screen cleaning services for residential and commercial clients since 1973. Service areas include Marin, Sonoma and Solano Counties, San Francisco, and parts of the East Bay. The company also provides power…
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How To Choose

Learning About Marin County Window Washing Companies

Commercial office managers and homeowners in Marin County have long recognized the benefits of hiring professional window cleaning services to wash their windows.

Reliable window washing companies use highly specialized equipment to clean windows quickly and thoroughly, and their techniques can keep windows cleaner for longer.

Can’t almost anyone wash and clean windows?

That may be true, but for hard-to-reach windows, multi-story buildings, office buildings that require frequent window washing serivces, and busy homeowners, it’s sometimes best to call in a professional.

And surprisingly, window cleaning services in Marin County are very affordable. Remember, though, that cheap window cleaning companies will probably not be the best window cleaners. Many discount window washers do not have the proper training, and they use cheap cleaning agents and tools that can damage windows or attract dirt and dust to leave them dirtier in the long run.

The following are several things you will want to think about before hiring professional window cleaners in San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, and your area.

Hire Window Washing Companies with Experience
The foremost reason some window washers are more successful than others at windows cleaning is simple – they have extensive experience. The best Marin County window cleaning companies have experience washing windows of many types and know how to access them in the safest, most efficient ways.

They will also know which window cleaning tools and methods work the best and how long it will take to clean windows for a house or office building.

Restoration and Maintenance
Some wear and tear on your windows will be unavoidable, and many Marin County window cleaning experts are capable of correcting minor damage or wearing. Their services may extend to restoring windows and glass for scratched glass, spotted or stained glass, and calcium deposits that result in that ugly white residue. These experts can many times defog windows such as the double pane windows that get moisture trapped in between the panes.

When you realize how helpful it can be to have professional window washing services working for you, you can arrange a regular maintenance schedule for monthly or yearly window cleaning services in Marin County.

There are also extra services offered when deeper cleaning is needed. Expert window washers will often scrub window frames, tracks, and sills. Some window cleaning specialists even offer discounts for post-construction window cleaning, and may be able to provide additional related services, such as spot cleaning, and window screen repair and door screen repairs, sometimes called rescreening.

Safety First
One of the first questions homeowners tend to think about with window cleaning companies is “Can I trust them inside my home?”

Your safety and that of your family and property should be the number one when selecting a window washing business.

Make sure that your window cleaning contractor has a good reputation in the community. You can also ask them to provide local references or even testimonials. Selecting a window washing company that is a member of local window washing associations or trade groups may also help guarantee a higher level of accountability.

Advanced Equipment and Training in Window Washing Services
Besides a lack of experience, another reason homeowners often fail at perfect glass cleaning is inferior equipment.

Window cleaning specialists in Marin County have advanced equipment to further their cleaning power. These experts are a long way from Windex and paper towels. Their expert equipment will include: ladders and access poles for those difficult-to-reach parts, squeegees for floors and windows, pressure cleaning for window washing, special scrapers, microfiber cloths, and industrial strength stain and spot removers.

Before hiring a professional window cleaner, make sure they have invested in quality tools and keep them in good condition. You also should ask if the company’s employees have received the proper training. If you wouldn’t select an electrician that did not have the proper tools or training, then don’t make the same mistake with your window washer.

Window Cleaning: Not as Simple as it Seems
Secondly, window cleaning is not as simple as it may seem at first. It can actually be surprisingly exasperating. It takes very little to get it wrong-the wrong window washing solution, the wrong fabric, the wrong wiping pattern, the wrong squeegee method, the wrong angle of the sun-sometimes it can almost seem impossible to get glass clean and clear.

You can bypass the window washing frustrations by hiring window cleaning specialists in Marin County that serve the major cities such as Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross, and Belvedere, as well as the smaller town like Albany, San Lorenzo and Union City. These professionals use perfected methods and specialized equipment; and therefore, they are able to leave windows streak-free for a much longer time than the average cleaning.

With numerous window washing companies out there, make sure you take the time and effort to search for the perfect window washing company for you. Make sure that you find the best service provider that takes window cleaning seriously. Also check the quality and the experience of the window cleaning companies. Be choosy in making your decision because you want only the best Marin County window cleaning company in your home.

Diamond Certified window washing contractors like these pictured are able to offer commercial and residential window washing services to single- and multi-story homes and businesses. You can feel confident choosing a quality window washing company listed above because each has been rated Highest in Quality and has earned the prestigious Diamond Certified award. For more information on how best to choose and work with window cleaning companies in Marin County, see the following informative articles. Photo: Crystal Clear Window Cleaning & Pressure Wash Services (2012) Topic: Finding High Quality Window Washing Services in Marin County

SAN RAFAEL—You are the customer. If your goal is to choose a window washing company that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident in choosing a Diamond Certified window cleaning company. Each has been rated Highest in Quality in the most accurate ratings process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified ratings and certification process will help you find a top-rated window washer and is unparalleled in its accuracy, rigor and usefulness:

1) Accuracy: All research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed, so you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews.

2) Statistical Reliability: A large random sample of past customers is surveyed on an ongoing basis so the research results you see truly reflect a Diamond Certified company’s top-rated status.

3) Full Disclosure: By clicking the name of a company above you’ll see the exact rating results in charts and read verbatim survey responses as well as researched articles on each qualified company.

4) Guaranteed: Your purchase is backed up with mediation and the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you can choose with confidence.

Click on the name of a Diamond Certified company above to read ratings results, researched articles and verbatim customer survey responses to help you make an informed decision.

More than 200,000 customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality in customer satisfaction–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified program eliminates mediocre and poorly performing companies. Read detailed information about the ratings and certification process.

Eric Kennedy is a veteran of the window cleaning industry and co-owner of Smart Window Cleaning, a Diamond Certified company since 2011. He can be reached at (415) 938-6902 or by email.

Eric Kennedy

diamond certified contributor profile and expert article

Eric Kennedy: A Clear Career

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

NOVATO — When Eric Kennedy started cleaning windows for additional income during college, he never thought it would lead to a lifelong livelihood. “My roommate and I were looking for a way to make some extra money, so we decided to try window cleaning,” he recounts. “We bought some tools, went out and did a couple of stores at the Northgate Mall. We did OK, but it didn’t really go anywhere, so I got a job working for a local window cleaning company where I could get formally trained. It turned out to be a natural fit—I enjoyed the physical work, as well as getting to work in and around beautiful homes all day. Almost 30 years later, I’m now co-owner of the same company I first started working for, along with my business partner, Damon Turner.”

As co-owner of Smart Window Cleaning, Eric says he appreciates the balance his position affords. “I’m not out cleaning windows anymore—I work in the office now—but I enjoy training our employees and passing on my knowledge of the trade. I also go out and do estimates for homeowners around the Bay Area, which gives me a nice balance between working in the office and being out in the field.”

A resident of Petaluma (where he lives with his wife, Suk Yen, and stepson, Aiden), Eric expresses his appreciation for its mellow pace of life. “It’s hard to beat North Bay living, especially here in Petaluma. In particular, my family and I love the Petaluma downtown area—besides having a historic aesthetic, it just has a good vibe.”

Outside of work, Eric can often be found riding bicycles with his family. “We like to put our bikes on the car and go riding in different spots around the Bay Area, like Tiburon or along the San Francisco Marina,” he says. “We also like eating out and going to the movies.”

In regard to his professional career, Eric acknowledges the contributions his employees have made to his company’s ongoing success. “The fact that what we do is seasonal can make it hard to retain employees, so we’ve been very fortunate that they keep coming back,” he explains. “If they didn’t, we wouldn’t be successful, so we really appreciate them and make an effort to maintain those relationships. It gives us a lot of pride that they continue to be a part of our team.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Eric he’d spend more time abroad. “My wife and I have a dream of buying a second home in Indonesia, which is where she’s from, and living abroad part-time. We’d continue to maintain a home here, so we could just go back and forth as we pleased. Hopefully that’s something we can afford to do one day.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: For Mexican food, it’s Mi Pueblo; for Vietnamese, we go to Thang Long; and for Italian, we like Sugo Trattoria.

Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl?
A: An early bird.

Q: What was your favorite toy as a child?
A: My skateboard.

Q: If you could immediate master any musical instrument, what would you choose?
A: The piano.

Q: Would you rather live in the city or the country?
A: Probably the country. Fortunately, Petaluma has a nice mix of both, so I appreciate that.

How to Clean a Window

by Eric Kennedy, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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NOVATO — If you want to maintain your windows in between professional cleanings, you’ll need to have the right cleaning tools and techniques at your disposal. Start with the tools: Go to your local hardware store and pick up a strip… Read more

Expert Video Tip

Video: How To Clean a Window

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Complete Video Transcription:

NOVATO — Host, Sarah Rutan: If you want to maintain your windows between professional cleanings, you’ll need to know the proper technique. Today we’re in Novato…
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SELECTED PHOTOS FROM THESE TOP RATED COMPANIES

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INDUSTRY INFORMATION AND RESEARCHED ARTICLES BY THE DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESOURCE

Know What You Want

Knowing What You Want Before Hiring Marin County Window Cleaning Companies

Once you are ready to hire a Marin County window cleaning service in the major cities of San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, and Larkspur, it is important to know what you want. Unfortunately, many cleaning companies are less than proficient and do not meet the standard of window cleaning required. Use the questions below to help you determine what you really want from a window cleaning service and you are almost guaranteed to find the most reliable and trustworthy window cleaning company. The benefits will be well-worth it!

Do I want a Marin County window cleaning company that uses environmentally friendly cleaning supplies?

Do I want a local window washing company to provide cleaning services on a regular basis or on a one-time basis only?

Do I want a window washing service that provides window cleaning supplies and equipment?

Do I want a reputable window washing company that is fully insured and bonded?

What windows do I want cleaned?

What is my budget for window washing services?

Do I want a Diamond Certified window cleaning company that is rated best in quality and backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee?

What To Ask In Person

Questions to Ask Representatives of Window Washing Companies in Marin County

Once you’ve narrowed down your search to a few of the best Marin County window cleaning companies that serve the major cities of Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross, and Belvedere, invite them to visit your home in person. This way, you can meet the company representative and show them the areas you need to have cleaned.

This will often give you a chance to ask some final questions about the window washing services and let the window cleaning companies give you more accurate quotes.

Questions you may want to consider asking at this point include:

How long will it take the Marin County window cleaning company to finish the job?

Can the window washing company remove mineral deposits, stains, and paint overspray when cleaning the windows if needed?

What additional services does the window cleaning company offer?

Can the window washers clean and repair window screens if you need that service?

What chemicals do the window cleaning professionals use or do they use chemicals?

Do the window washing companies offer special coatings to help your windows repel bird droppings, dust and watter spotting?

Are the window cleaning solutions these window washers use safe, pet-friendly, and child-friendly?

Do the window cleaners do their window washing alone, with a crew, or subcontractors?

Do you have any specials for new customers?

Will the window washing companies provide one-time services, or do they require a contract for multiple visits?

What To Ask References

Learn About Local Window Washing Companies From Previous Customers

It’s best to choose a Diamond Certified window cleaning company because all certified companies have passed an in-depth ratings process that most other companies can’t pass.

If you want quality from a window washing professional in Marin County and the greater Bay Area, you can have confidence choosing a Diamond Certified company. Diamond Certified reports are available online for all certified companies.

And you’ll never be misled by fake reviews. That’s because all research is performed in live telephone interviews of actual customers.

If you can’t find a Diamond Certified window washing company within reach, you’ll have to do some research on your own. If you do, plan to call some references provided by the window cleaning professionals.

Keep in mind, though, that references provided to you by the window cleaning company are not equal in value to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process.

That’s because references given to customers from companies are cherry-picked instead of randomly selected from all their customers. So the contractors will likely give you a few customers to call that they know are satisfied.

If you do call references on your own, specifically ask for a list of the company’s 10 most recent customers. This will help avoid them giving you the names of only customers they know were satisfied.

Questions you may want to ask include these:

Do you feel the price was fair for the window cleaning services you received?

What did you like best about this particular Marin County window cleaning company?

Did the window cleaning company listen to and communicate with you?

What window cleaning services did (window cleaning company name_) do for you?

Were you satisfied with the window cleaning services from this Marin County window cleaning company?

Would you go back to this window cleaning company for future window cleaning services?

Review Your Options

Finding a Trustworthy Window Cleaning Professional in Marin County

The Diamond Certified symbol has been awarded to companies that scored Highest in Quality in an accurate ratings process.

Your choice of window cleaning company is an important concern. More expensive companies do not necessarily offer better value. On the same token, inexpensive companies may not provide the service that you want. It’s important to understand that every window cleaning service will perform the window cleaning a little differently. Some will be able to customize their approach to your needs a little better. Ask for a specific cleaning checklist of exactly what your window cleaning will include. Also, if you are using window cleaning company for cleaning maintenance, be sure to ask whether all of the tasks will be accomplished with each cleaning service, or is certain tasks will be rotated.

Before deciding on the best window cleaners in Marin County for you, it’s important to consider the following questions.

When was the last time rates were raised? It is important to understand how often the costs of the company are raised so that you are not surprised in the future by unexpected increases.

What does the window cleaning company offer that is specific to my needs?

Is the window company bonded and insured?

What are the billing practices of the window washing business?

Can a window cleaning company in Marin County provide your requirements for scheduling and customer service?

How To Work With

Preparing to Sign A Contract with Marin County Window Cleaning Companies

Once you find a local window cleaning company in Marin County, including the larger cities of San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, and Larkspur, that meets all your standards, it is time to ask for a written contract.

This contract should include the written details about the price of the window cleaning, as well as the date when the job will be done.

Be sure to read and understand all terms and restrictions before you sign the contract. If you do not understand some of the terms or content of the contract, ask your window cleaning company for an explanation or a new contract. You deserve to fully understand the terms you’re agreeing to before you make a formal decision.

This contract should safeguard your home or business and your interests, as well as those of window cleaning company. Because of this, you should never sign an incomplete estimate or an estimate with errors or omissions.

Do not be afraid to write specific requests or verbal agreements in the contract. This will protect you and confirm that you get the services you agreed on. You might include issues that are not always in a contract, like how the window cleaning company will handle any window or glass damage that occurs while they are cleaning the windows.

Be a Good Customer

Keys to Being a Good Window Cleaning Customer

It’s the window washing company’s responsibility put in quality window washing using the best possible cleaning techniques. But you play a big part in the success of your window cleaning, too.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to be a good customer when hiring a Marin County window cleaner.

Ask your window washing specialist if you should call to check on the progress or if he will call you with updates.

Be sure your service representative has a phone number where they can reach you at all times while they’re window cleaning. The work will move along more smoothly if your window washing company can reach you for any necessary updates, questions or work authorizations.

Before you hire a window cleaning company in Marin County, restate your expectations and goals, and reiterate to the window washing representative your understanding of the agreement. Most problems with local window washer occur because of a breakdown in communication. By being clear about your expectations and theirs, you can avoid most conflicts.

Pay for the window cleaning work promptly.

Be clear and upfront with the professional window cleaner. Let them know what you want from your window cleaning, the long-term outcome you’re expecting and specific ways they can satisfy your expectations.

Remember, a friendly smile goes a long way.

You will want to be a good customer. Window washing in Marin County appreciate customers who are straightforward, honest and easy to work with. Your good customer conduct sets the tone from your end and creates an environment conducive to a good relationship, so the work may go smoother and any problems may be more easily resolved.

Check The Work

Check the Invoice with Completed Window Cleaning Work

When the Marin County window cleaning is completed in the major cities of Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Ross, and Belvedere, or your area, your window cleaning service representative will give you a written invoice that includes:

An itemized list of all replacement parts. This should state whether the parts installed were new or reconditioned window parts.

The name and physical address of the shop.

A list of all work completed, including warranty repairs done at no charge.

The total cost for your window cleaning, including the amount charged for labor.

Any applicable warrantees provided by the window cleaning manufacturer or the window cleaning company.

It is a good idea to compare the finished window cleaning work with what was written on the invoice. Ask your window washing company representative to walk through the job site and show you the cleaning or repairs. Check what was done against the invoice. During the walk-through, ask if there are any special instructions for maintaining your windows. If you have any questions about the work that was done or the materials used, now is the time to ask.

Written Warranties

Get Written Warranties for Window Washing Companies

Respectable window washing companies in Marin County may offer warranties on their services or on the materials that they used. All warranty details should be provided in writing during the contract stage or at the conclusion of the job so that you have a record of the guarantees you were promised.

This written warranty information should include:

Your responsibility if you place a warranty claim (i.e., if you have to pay for labor or materials, or if you are obligated to pay a prorated amount).

The window washing business’s name and physical address.

What products and services are covered.

Whether the window washing company will replace or repair damaged parts in the event of a product failure or damage to your property due to their services or materials.

Limitations and exclusions on the materials and workmanship must be in writing.

Top 10 Requests

Service Requests for Window Cleaning Contractors in Marin County

Window washing shops in Marin County provide many cleaning services. However, some services are more common than others.

The following are some of the most familiar requests for local window cleaning shops in Marin County.

Specialized Window Washing Solution
Cleaning solutions used to wash windows vary from company to company. However, many Marin area window cleaning companies provide specialized window cleaning solutions depending on their customers’ needs. These may include green window washing solutions (for eco-friendly window cleaning), natural window cleaning solutions, window cleaning solutions that are safe for pets and plants and window washing chemicals that won’t harm glass or paint. Ask your window cleaning company if you require a special window washing solution for your job to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

Window Washing Squeegees
A t-shaped implement that has a crosspiece that is edged with rubber or leather. This is drawn across a surface to remove water in window washing. Some customers request window washing squeegees rather than rag drying because it is less likely to leave lint or streaks if done properly.

Residential Window Washing
Professionally maintaining the cleanliness of windows, mirrors and other glass services of a home, apartment or other residence.

High Rise Window Washing
Window washing services that use highly specialized equipment to clean windows quickly and thoroughly in high rise buildings, including office buildings and high rise apartments.

Pressure Washing for Windows
Using a piece of equipment that forces water or another liquid to quickly to clean surfaces, such as windows, home exteriors, etc. Some window cleaners use pressure washing on windows to remove bird droppings or other stuck-on debris.

insulated glass
A light of glass made up of two sheets of glass, a spacer bar that is filled with desiccant material placed between the two sheets at the perimeter, and a sealant applied around the perimeter of the assembly.

interior window cleaning
Cleaning the interior surfaces of windows in homes and businesses.

jamb
Sides or outermost vertical side members of a door or window frame.

magnetic window cleaning
A window cleaner that simultaneously cleans the inside and outside of a window which cuts cleaning time. Powerful magnets hold both sponges in place while you clean so that what you clean inside is also cleaned outside.

pressure washing
Using a piece of equipment that forces water or another liquid out of a container very quickly to clean things, such as windows, cars, home exteriors, etc…

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ for Local Window Cleaning Contractors and Window Washers

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified Window Washing Company? …

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified Window Washing Company?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a window washing company with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only professional window cleaners rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified window washing company.

Q: Can windows that appear foggy be cleaned?
A: The seal may be broken if the fog lies between two separate window panes. It could not be cleaned. You could contact the window manufacturer to see if you windows have a current warranty.

Q: Can paint and varnish be removed from windows?
A: Window cleaners can usually safely remove material like paint, varnish, caulk, concrete, stucco, stickers and sheet rock from off the windows. This type cleaning (sometimes considered a construction clean) takes longer and isn’t typically included in a normal estimate.

Q: How often should I clean my windows?
A: Windows should be cleaned a minimum of two times a year. Cleaning twice a year will prevent glass degradation and will maintain your windows’ luster.

Q: Do professional window cleaners make a lot of noise?
A: Certain cleaning services may make a lot of noise, like pressure washing, but other cleaning services, like window cleaning, make very little noise.

Q: Does the rain make the windows dirty again after they have been cleaned?
A: It all depends. Rain is merely distilled water. If the air is clean, rain on your windows will dry leaving no dirt or residue. If it has been raining off and on, and the ground is still damp, then t

Q: Do my curtains need to be taken down before my window washer arrives?
A: Any help is always welcome, but it is not necessary. It will simplify the process though, and many customers will prefer to help out, especially with the removal of window grids. Most technicians can work around most anything in the house!

Q: What is the best time of the year to have windows cleaned?
A: There is not a bad time to have windows cleaned. Many times people are concerned about having their windows cleaned during the winter months because of the possibility of rain; however, rain isn’t a concern, and winter months are as good of a time as any to clean windows. One of the best times to have windows cleaned is when they are dirty!

Q: What is glass degradation?
A: Over time, glass may become permeated with contaminates like oxidization, hard minerals, acid rain, and overspray. Cleaning your windows professionally twice a year and spot cleaning the rest of the year will keep windows bright and shiny.